Thompsons NI concerned over indication that vaginal mesh implants could be offered again

The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) has indicated that the suspension on the use of vaginal mesh could be uplifted in England subject to certain conditions being met.

The use of vaginal mesh was suspended last year in the UK following concerns about its safety. NICE has recommended that prior to any reintroduction, the following steps must be taken:

• All vaginal mesh operations must be carried out by specialist surgeons at specialist units
• A National database should record all operations and their outcomes
• Every patient must receive a “decision aid” setting out up-to-date information on available treatments
• Mesh implants should only be used after non-surgical options, for example, if physiotherapy or medication have failed.

Labour MP Owen Smith has argued that the suspension of the use of vaginal mesh should continue until the findings of the Cumberlege review are published later this year. He said: “The updated guidelines appear to disregard mesh-injured women’s experiences by stating there is no long-term evidence of adverse effects. Thousands of women have faced life-changing injuries following mesh surgery and they must not be ignored.”

Mr Smith has argued that the Baroness Cumberlege was in agreement, he continued: “For the foreseeable future, mesh should not be used to treat stress urinary incontinence, either in the NHS or the independent sector.”

Making a medical negligence claim with Thompsons NI

Thompsons NI is currently representing a considerable number of local ladies who have experienced significant and often life-changing complications following the use of surgical mesh/tape and is supporting them through the process of making a medical negligence claim.

If you have been affected by the use of surgical mesh/tape, Thompsons NI can support you. Contact our specialist solicitors, Joanne Kerr or Oonagh McClure in Belfast, on 02890 890450 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Alternatively, you can visit our medical negligence claims page for more information.